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Rogaine FAQ

Rogaine is a well known solution for hair loss. However, many users may not be able to answer simple questions like, "What is it?" "How does it work?" or "Are there any side effects?" Since Rogaine is a topical drug, knowing the answers to these questions is very, very important for your health.

  1. History

    • Rogaine was not originally designed to promote hair growth. According to Dr. Pistone.com, it was created to treat high blood pressure in the 1980s. Doctors noticed that patients were growing hair in previously bald areas, and decided to market it as a hair growth formula, at a fraction of its original strength. It was the first drug to successfully promote hair growth.

    Women and Rogaine

    • Rogaine is not just for men. According to Rogaine.com, up to 30 million women are suffering from hair loss. This is particularly important because women's hair loss can be even more devastating than men's, due to society's emphasis on hair being part of a woman's beauty. This product works just as effectively on a woman's scalp, and the instructions are the same.

    General Information

    • According to Rogaine.com, Rogaine contains minoxidil, an FDA approved ingredient that triggers hair growth. This solution comes in 2 percent for women and 5 percent for men. It is recommended for use for patients who have androgenetic alopecia, or hereditary hair loss. It must be applied twice daily and allowed to dry thoroughly for best results. The hair may be towel dried before applying. Rogaine can only be obtained with a prescription.

    Results

    • According to Rogaine.com, users have reported an initial increase in shedding, but then an increase in hair growth. This is because Rogaine speeds up the hair cycle, moving the fully grown hair to the shedding stage and then to the regrowth stage. The new hair is thicker and fuller. It can be styled just like the rest of the hair. Results may take as long as four months before they are visible.

    Warnings

    • According to Rogaine.com, in order to continue to have best results, the user must continue to use Rogaine. If use is stopped, the hair will fall out and the scalp will return to its pre-application state. People who have alopecia areata (patch baldness), sudden onset alopecia, alopecia due to pregnancy, or loss of a great deal of hair should not use this drug. If the user experiences chest pain, rapid pulse, swelling or facial hair growth, treatment should be stopped immediately.

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